Home remodel uses universal design to give independence to woman who uses wheelchair

Debbie Griffin, of Berrien County's St. Joseph Township, recently moved into a home that had been remodeled with multiple features to help her live independently in her wheelchair.

Griffin suffered a stroke to her spine six years ago and can use only her upper body.

Starting with resource materials from Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, Griffin and her parents planned the home and hired a contractor and carpenter to help them redesign it. The kitchen took the most planning.